The 2006 growing season was marked by a very mild summer with a mid-July heat spike that accelerated ripening. Mild temperatures continued throughout the fall allowing for a moderately paced harvest. The long growing season brought complex and intense flavor and aroma development.

Comments from the Winemaker

Three Palms Vineyard is legendary in the world of California Merlot—and for good reason. A hot site with free-draining soils, Three Palms consistently delivers focused red fruit flavors balanced by an austere minerality, which contributes to elegant aging potential. The 2006 Three Palms Vineyard Merlot delivers all the vibrant fruit one would expect, with layers of red currant, raspberry and black cherry underscored by elements of piecrust, strawberry, caramel and wet stone. The tannins are dry and elegant, leading to a long, jammy finish.

Varietal Content

75% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot

Harvest Information

Appellation: Napa Valley
Harvest Dates: September 14 – October 31, 2006
Average Sugar at Harvest: 26.8 degrees Brix

Cooperage

100% French oak château-style barrels (60 gallons)
Barrel Aging: 18 Months
Age of Barrels: 100% New

Technical Data

Alcohol: 14.5%
Titratable Acidity: 0.63 g/100ml
pH: 3.49

Bottled: July 2008

Released: April 2009